The tenth edition of the “La Passione di Yara” International Under-11 Seven-a-Side Football Tournament was presented this morning at the Hotel Settecento in Presezzo (Bergamo). The tournament is scheduled to take place from September 12th to 14th at the Valbrembo Sports Centre. Following a preview event at the European Parliament in Brussels, the tournament was unveiled to the press in a conference moderated by journalist Xavier Jacobelli.
The event, organized by Accademia Calcio Valbrembo with GSD Paladina, is held annually in memory of Yara Gambirasio and supports the association established in her name. Over the past decade, the association has promoted more than 150 projects for young people across Italy.
During the press conference, Inter Milan President Giuseppe Marotta was awarded for his social commitment to football, and Roberto Samaden, the head of Atalanta’s youth sector, was recognized for his educational dedication to young players. “From a tragedy, something beautiful and positive was born,” explained Inter President Giuseppe Marotta. “I have had a relationship with the Gambirasio family for several years, and I cultivate it with great pleasure because they have built something important. They have created a fundamental community for the growth of all the boys and girls who participate in this tournament. My congratulations go to everyone, and I hope this initiative can continue to grow.”
The tournament will feature 30 boys’ teams, six more than the previous edition, including clubs such as Inter, Juventus, Milan, Atalanta, and foreign teams Lokomotiva Zagreb, Hibernians Malta, and Spartak Trnava. An Under-12 girls’ tournament and a special football match are also planned.
On Saturday, September 13th, the teams will parade through the streets of Valbrembo, followed by the official inauguration of the pitch and a musical evening. The final and awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, September 14th. Including preliminary rounds and the final stages, over 100 teams and 1,500 children are set to participate in the event, which is held in memory of Yara and the values she represents.